(HONOLULU) – Today, a certified private arborist inspected the large ficus tree on the Judd Trail in the Honolulu Forest Reserve that fell yesterday, injuring a hiker. His report will become part of the state’s investigation into the accident and provide the basis for clearing the tree from the trail, which was closed after the incident.

Suzanne Case, DLNR Chair, speaking on behalf of everyone in the department, extended thoughts and prayers to the woman injured when the large tree fell. “This was an unpredictable accident and we all feel for the victim and her family. We hope she recovers quickly and fully.”

State crews perform regular maintenance on trails to keep them open, and respond to obvious hazardous conditions. Falling trees, rock-fall and landslides are all part of the natural landscape, making these rare events impossible to predict. Dave Smith, administrator of the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife said, “Since there are many natural hazards we remind people to remain aware of the risks they might encounter.”